Suitable Ribbed Newt Substrates

This is a discussion on Suitable Ribbed Newt Substrates within the Ribbed Newts (Pleurodeles) forums, part of the Species, Genus & Family Discussions category; I have raised up handful of P. Waltls they are fully morphed and am ready to give the ones I ...

Ribbed Newts (Pleurodeles)Now comprising at least 3 species, this genus of newts includes the largest "newt" in the world, Pleurodeles waltl.

I have raised up handful of P. Waltls they are fully morphed and am ready to give the ones I am keeping a tank of their own, I would like to know what substrates are acceptable as I am used to axolotls and am not sure about gravel with the ribbed newts or other ornamentation, Please advise.

If you look up "substrate" in the Vivaria, Enclosures & Product Reviews section, you will find many threads about this. Also check out this article: Caudata Culture Articles - Aquarium Substrates
Gravel is generally not recommended as the newts can swallow pieces and get impacted. Sand or bare bottom are the best options. I personally use sand over a layer of soil (Walstad type of set up for good plant growth).

I like big pebbles for sharp ribs at least 4 cm . I feed them worms and they have heads evolved to wedge in-between the stones and almost listen to the worms when they hunt its quite engrossing to watch. They are also easy to keep clean. regards kb

I use bare tanks and it is very entertaining watching them stalk around hunting under and around rocks and hides. They do scrabble a bit on the bare floor but they don't seem bothered and still get their food, so I hope it's not mean to enjoy watching them flail their legs like ridiculous Muppets. They take such forceful, pouncing bites it propels them backwards once they snatch up the food.